Sarah Wooton

Master of Arts in Teaching

Q. You seem to enjoy your time at Drew. What has been your best memory of Drew so far?
A. It seems like I’ve just started at Drew, even though I’m over half-way through! I’ve really enjoyed my observations, but I’ve also loved getting to know the other students in my cohort. They are a bright, kind, and talented group of future teachers and I know they have great careers in front of them. Also, by interacting with other future educators, as well as learning from the experience of those who have been in the field for many years, I have learned a great deal on how to improve my craft. In life there are many ways to look at something, and just as many ways to teach it; this program has made me realize that.

Q. You mentioned your classroom observations. Can you describe your experiences so far in these schools?
A. I’ve been working on both urban and suburban field experiences; so far, they have been the highlight of my time in graduate school. It has been rewarding to see what I learn in my graduate classes actually implemented in the high school or middle school classroom. Both of my cooperating teachers are absolutely amazing educators. By observing them, I have been able to turn the rhetorical into the practical and have a deeper understanding of what it means to truly educate.

Q. You have interned in some very impressive areas, from the White House to Congress. Can you describe that experience as well?
A. I have had a lot of varied work experience! By far, you’ve picked my two favorite places. I worked at a local congressional office and the White House Office of Strategic Initiatives. Both of these places reinforced what I love about government and public service: giving back to your community, working for the public good, and leaving the world a better place than what I inherited. From these experiences, as well as my other work with the government, I have begun to understand that my true path in public service is to teach.

Q. How do you plan to use your experiences interning in your classes?
A. As a teacher, I hope to give back to my country and open up opportunities to my students and inspire them to become greater citizens. My experiences with government gave me a greater understanding and appreciation for education because they opened my eyes to the possibilities that lay open to those who worked hard and never took for granted their education. I will be able to use these experiences as examples of the opportunities that students have available to them, as well as showing that our government works for the people

Q. What is your philosophy of education?
A. I believe that education is not about knowledge gained, but about the ability to think critically about any issue. It is essential that students are able to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to their lives as a student and citizen. As a graduate, I plan on focusing many of my lessons on application. When a student realizes how an education relates to his own life, he will value it and become a lifelong learner.

Q. How has Drew helped you in achieving your goals and living up to your philosophy?
A. Drew has not only helped me achieve my goals, it has helped shape and find voice for my goals. I came into this program as a person who was passionate about education, but not sure how to apply it. Drew has taught me how to apply my passion, and I cannot wait to begin my future career!